Schools and educational institutions as drivers of change.
Schools and educational institutions are ideal platforms for promoting energy efficiency because of their unique position within communities. They can serve as models of sustainable practices, inspire students and teachers to adopt environmentally friendly behaviors, and provide hands-on learning experiences. While acting as educational facilities, these institutions can become starting points for innovation in energy efficiency.
In Croatia, several initiatives have successfully transformed schools into environmentally friendly spaces by implementing energy-efficient technologies. For example, the “Smart Schools” project improved the carbon footprint of schools in the Croatia-Bosnia Herzegovina border area by installing energy-saving measures such as thermal insulation and modern windows and doors. This led to significant annual energy savings, with photovoltaic systems installed on the roofs of two schools and new biomass boilers in several others.
Another notable example is the Nikola Tesla primary school in Rijeka, where extensive renovations aimed at improving energy efficiency were carried out. The project achieved a reduction of over 47% in annual energy used for heating, exceeding the initial target of 20%. The improvements included restoring the facade, replacing exterior joinery with better insulating wood, and thermally insulating the roof, terrace, and ceiling below the attic.
In Kaštel Lukšić, the Ostrog primary school achieved complete energy independence in terms of electricity. The school produces electricity for its own needs with a 22 kW solar power plant on its roof, and previously replaced classic bulbs with more efficient LED bulbs. This project was realized by the Kaštela Energy Cooperative in cooperation with various partners, and serves as one of the first examples of organizing a local community into an energy cooperative to implement a community energy project in Croatia.
Educational Impact and Community Engagement
The integration of energy efficiency projects in schools has several benefits: it reduces the environmental impact of the institution while also serving as an educational tool. Students involved in these projects learn about renewable energy, sustainability, and the importance of natural conservation. Moreover, they often participate in workshops and activities that encourage them to think critically about their own energy consumption and environmental practices.
Additionally, these projects support community engagement. Schools often invite parents and local residents to participate in energy-saving initiatives, such as community clean-up days or workshops on energy efficiency. This collaboration not only strengthens community ties but also amplifies the impact of sustainability efforts beyond the school walls.
The Future of Energy Efficiency in Croatian education institutions
As the urgency of addressing climate change is getting bigger and bigger, the role of schools and educational institutions as drivers of change will undoubtedly expand.
In the coming years, we can expect to see even more initiatives that focus on renewable energy sources, energy-efficient technologies, and sustainable practices. The Croatian Ministry of Science and Education has already expressed a commitment to integrating sustainability into the national curriculum, ensuring that future generations are equipped with the knowledge and skills to navigate an increasingly complex environmental landscape.
The journey toward energy efficiency in Croatian schools exemplifies the potential of educational institutions to be powerful agents of change. By adopting sustainable practices and engaging students and communities, schools are not just reducing their energy consumption—they are educating a generation of environmentally conscious citizens.
However, challenges remain. A 2023 report highlighted that Croatian schools lack systematic education about climate change, with most knowledge being acquired through individual projects led by proactive teachers. Furthermore, only 30% of lower secondary teachers have received training on environmental and sustainability issues, the lowest among participating countries.
In conclusion, while Croatia has made significant strides in promoting sustainability within its education system, there is still room for improvement. Enhancing teacher training and embedding climate education more systematically are crucial steps toward empowering future generations to tackle environmental challenges effectively.
*The opinions put forward in this article are the sole responsibility of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK).
